Tell us about your most recent project, the Parc Hotel Billia
in Italy.
The project arose from the desire to make a great mountain hotel that was inspired by the Valser community in Switzerland and their architecture, blending local traditions with elements connected to atmospheres from afar.
Each room has been designed with a small balcony that appears to extend the space and with views of the mountains or down into the valley and the Dora Baltea. Wood is everywhere in the rooms: The parquet flooring is aged oak offset by warm wool rugs; a sliding panel masks the view of the bathroom; the backlit headboard features an arrangement of wood panels; the door concealing the minibar and safe is of solid larch wood—traditionally used to produce butter and cheese in the Valle d’Aosta—decorated with relief carvings.
What is an item you personally can’t live without?
We cannot live anymore without electronic devices, but the object I believe is crucial for mankind’s survival is the glass for a martini cocktail.
You just launched new products at the Milan Furniture Fair in April. What is your product design philosophy?
The aesthetic is no different in architecture, art direction, interior design, or design: it is one philosophy and the guidelines are simplicity, elegance, and silence.
You make beautiful furniture, lighting, and accessories, but what’s on your must-have hospitality list?
The espresso coffee cup is a must-have, in your home or in any hotel. There is a perfect measure for it. The cup shouldn’t be too small or too big, otherwise the temperature disperses rapidly and you may drink a cold coffee.
You’re from Italy, have a studio in New York, and have worked all over the world. What is one of your favorite spots?
I am always happy to return to New York. It is a wonderful city and even if I change hotels, I always prefer to stay downtown.
